Historical Talk - The Battle of the Somme 1916: Ulster's Gettysburg

Battle of the Somme Talk in Carrickfergus
Explore one of the most significant and tragic battles of the First World War at a special history talk in Carrickfergus examining the Battle of the Somme and its lasting impact on people across Ulster and Northern Ireland.

The evening will look at the military campaign itself, the experiences of local men who travelled from Ulster to the Western Front, and the way the Somme has been remembered by families and communities in the generations since.

The Battle of the Somme and Ulster
The talk will explore:

The tactics, scale and tragedy of the Battle of the Somme
The journey of local men from Ulster to the battlefields of France
The experiences of soldiers and their families
How the Somme was commemorated in the decades after the First World War
Why the battle continues to hold such strong significance in Northern Ireland
The Somme has often been described as “Ulster’s Gettysburg” because of the enormous impact the battle had on communities across the province and the central place it came to hold in public memory.

A Veteran’s Personal Story
The talk will also include the remarkable story of a 99-year-old Somme veteran who was interviewed by the speaker.

His memories provide a personal connection to the events of the First World War and offer an insight into the experiences of those who witnessed the conflict first-hand.

Booking Information
Light refreshments will be provided.

Advance booking is essential, as places are limited.

To reserve your place, contact Carrickfergus Castle Visitor Information Centre:

Telephone: 028 9335 8262
Email: visitorinfo@midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Join this reflective evening of local history, wartime experiences and personal stories exploring why the Battle of the Somme continues to resonate so deeply across Northern Ireland.